Biography:
Giuliana Sgrena, born on 20 December 1948, is an influential Italian journalist known for her work with the Italian communist newspaper il manifesto and the German weekly Die Zeit. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to uncovering the truth and shedding light on important global issues. Sgrena’s life has been marked by significant events, challenges, and achievements that have left a lasting impact on both her and society.
Born and raised in Masera, Province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, Sgrena grew up in a small town that had witnessed intense fighting during World War II. Her father, Franco Sgrena, was a notable partisan during the war and later became an activist in the communist railway union. This environment shaped Sgrena’s early awareness of political and societal issues and set the foundation for her future career.
Sgrena pursued her education in Milan, where she actively engaged in leftist politics and became a professed pacifist. In 1980, she joined Guerra e Pace, a weekly publication edited by Michelangelo Notarianni. This marked the beginning of her career as a war correspondent. Sgrena’s dedication to her craft led her to cover various conflicts, including the Algerian Civil War, the Somali conflict, and the war in Afghanistan. Throughout her travels in the Horn of Africa, the Maghreb, and the Middle East, she reported extensively on critical issues and shed light on the plight of women, particularly under Islam.
As a campaigner for women’s rights, Sgrena demonstrated her commitment to equality and empowerment. Her book, Alla scuola dei Taleban (At the Taliban’s School), explored the conditions faced by women under the Taliban regime. By addressing this sensitive topic, Sgrena further amplified the discussion on women’s rights and challenged societal norms.
Sgrena opposed the 2003 invasion of Iraq and traveled to Baghdad to provide coverage of the bombings that took place in the city. Her unwavering dedication to reporting the truth led her to take significant risks as an unembedded reporter in a warzone. In March 2005, Sgrena was kidnapped outside Baghdad University by gunmen. Her willingness to document the war, fully aware of the immense risks involved, showcased her passion and bravery as a journalist.
Tragically, Sgrena’s kidnapping led to a devastating incident during her release. While on their way to Baghdad International Airport, the vehicle she was traveling in, with the assistance of two Italian intelligence officers, came under fire from U.S. forces. This attack resulted in the death of Major General Nicola Calipari, a highly respected figure in the Italian Military Intelligence and Security Service. Sgrena herself sustained injuries, further highlighting the immense dangers journalists face while carrying out their crucial work.
The incident surrounding Sgrena’s release and the subsequent loss of life caused an international outcry, igniting discussions about the safety of journalists and the responsibilities of military forces in conflict zones. This event further solidified Sgrena’s reputation as a fearless advocate for truth and transparency, leaving a lasting impact on the world of journalism.
Throughout her career, Giuliana Sgrena has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to reporting unbiased news and shedding light on critical global issues. Her bravery, dedication, and passion have made her an important figure in women’s history, challenging societal norms and continuously working towards a more equitable world.
Awards:
– Cavaliere del Lavoro for her coverage of the bombing of Baghdad in 2003 (to be verified through additional reliable sources)